"Latest Training and Updates from Shambala and Spiritual Heirarchy.Initiations and Service Roles within the Spiritual Heirarchy,Planetary Events of Interest,the Path of Universal Synthisis a Blog to Include and Transcend All Schools All Paths All Ashrams All Masters of Teachers Saints All Sages of this New Age!"

Friday, January 29, 2010

The Great Prayer Festival for World Peace You are invited to participate in the Great Prayer Festival, held again this year at Kopan Monastery.

Please see below how to make the offerings, or check our web site for more information and donation link - http://www.kopanmon astery.com/ forms/sponsor. html

For many years now, Kopan Monastery has been hosting the annual Great Prayer Festival (Monlam Chenmo) in Nepal - the extensive prayer gathering lasting for five days. In 2010 Kopan Monastery is again hosting it from February 24-29.

It will be presided by the Most Venerable Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tenzin, the Ex-abbot of Gyume Tantric collage and in line to be the Ganden Tripa, who will be teaching everyday during Monlam. More than 1800 Rinpoches, Geshes, monks, and nuns from Nepal and India will attend this extraordinary five-day Great Prayer Festival to pray for world peace. (Please note that Khensur Rinpoche will be teaching for 3 weeks following the Monlam)

Join the Monlam We are pleased to invite everyone to participate in this great occasion in person or by making offerings of food, tea, lights or money offering to the Sangha. Your names and dedications will be read to the assembly of Sangha in every prayer session over the five days to request for dedication. If you would like to accumulate extensive merits, this is a unique opportunity to make offerings to Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha to collect ocean-like merit and to create the cause for prosperity by practicing generosity.

All pujas, prayer ceremonies, food offering and cash offering for the Sangha for the five-day festival are open for sponsorship. Simply fill in the form below (based on a total of 1,600 monks and nuns) and participate in such a tremendous festival. Remember: "Offering even one cent to the Sangha community brings uncountable benefit and merit. As long as the Sangha community exists your merit exist. It will not be exhausted. When making the offering in your mind dedicate strongly for your purpose and make strong prayers for all your wishes to be fulfilled"------------ --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ------

The Monlam Tradition

The Great Prayer Festival was established by the Great Saint Lama Tsong Khapa (also known as Losang Drakpa) in 1409, when the first Great Prayer Festival was held in Lhasa . He invited all the people of Tibet to a two-week-long festival of prayer, auspicious rituals, teachings, and celebrations, from the first new moon until the full moon of the Tibetan New Year. Many hundreds of thousands, perhaps more than a million, came from near and far.

That time of the year was chosen because Lama Tsong Khapa firmly believed in the life story of the founder Guru Shakyamuni Buddha told in the Indian Buddhist Sutra of the Wise and the Foolish called Overcoming the Six Teachers,

"Buddha was challenged by six rival teachers to a contest of miraculous performances. For many years, Buddha evaded their challenges, letting people believe that he was afraid of their magical powers, losing his royal patrons, and causing doubts and worries to grow among the people.

Finally, in the city of Shravasti , Buddha accepted the challenge and stood before a huge assembly of people from the entire central north Indian area. He proceeded to perform miracle after miracle during the first fortnight of the Tibetan New Year. The rival teachers were eclipsed almost immediately, as Buddha produced spectacular manifestations. He threw down a toothpick and grew a giant wish-granting gem tree. He rinsed his mouth with scented water, and celestial lakes with divine ducks and jewel lotuses appeared. He concentrated and emitted rays of light, and hosts of Buddhas, bodhisattvas and gods filled the skies. Teachings of liberation and awakening, reverberating in every language known to man, illumined the minds of all assembled. He even manifested a vision of himself multiplying infinitely, his compassionate energy becoming clearly present to everyone's awareness.”

It is said that during that first Great Prayer Festival in 1409, all the people who gathered in Lhasa had visions of Buddhas and divine beings filling the sky. Everyone got into their most religious mood and spent the whole time as if on a spiritual retreat, praying, studying, making offerings, teaching, learning, and debating meaningful philosophical topics.

The noble tradition is preserved and is practised in the same way to this day in most of the Gelug monasteries. The full moon, the Day of Miracles, is the most special day of the festival, where thousands of people, lay and ordained alike, come to pray, view the big butter sculptures, and make offerings to the Sangha. The main purpose of the Great Prayer Festival is to pray for the long life of all the holy Gurus of all traditions, for the survival and spreading of the Dharma in the minds of all sentient beings, and for world peace. The communal prayers, offered with strong faith and devotion, help to overcome obstacles to peace and generate conditions conducive for everyone to live in harmony.

Prayer Sessions

Many different kinds of prayers will be performed during the festival. The five prayer sessions from Day 1 to Day 4 are as follows:

First Session* Confession to 35 Buddhas

* Maitreya’s Ornament for Clear Realization

* Root text of Madaymaka

* 100-syllable mantras

* Prayer of the Benefits of making Maitreya Statues

* Torma offering to Palden Lhamo and other protectors

* Torma offering to local deities

* Migtsema prayer

(Breakfast is served)

Second Session

* Sanghas debate on Valid Cognition

* Teachings on the Life Story of Buddha by the Monlam Abbot the Most Venerable Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tenzin

Third Session * Lama Tsong Khapa Guru Yoga

* Lamrim Lines of Experience

* Triple Grounds Glory

* Prayers to16 Arhats

* Supplication to Lineage Gurus (Khensima)

* Name of Manjushri

* The 8 Prayers

* Praises to 21 Taras

* Namgyalma long mantra

* Other long life Buddha Mantras

* Torma offering to Palden Lhamo and other protectors

* Torma offering to local deities

(Lunch is served)

Fourth Session* Debate on Madaymaka, the middle way philosophy

Actual Monlam starts:

* Recitation of Lekdrima (praise to Tara)

* Kapsumpa (Praise of Buddha known as Jewel of Three Crowns)

* Supplication to Lineage Gurus (Losang Gyalkunam)

* Trusol (very extensive bath offering)

* Offerings of 8 auspicious signs

* Long Mandala offering

* Confession to 35 Buddhas

* The secret biographical prayers of Lama Tsong Khapa

* Prayers to Buddha Maitreya

* Prayers of success in the start, middle and end of practice

* Monlam Abbot the Most Venerable Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tenzin leading comprehensive dedication prayers followed by the assembly chanting the prayer - “For As Long As ....”

Fifth Session

* Long White Umbrella prayer (Dukkar)

* Long life mantras

* Praises to 21 Taras

* Torma offering to Palden Lhamo and other protectors

* Torma offering to local deities

* Migtsema Prayers are chanted while Sangha leave hall

(Dinner is served)

In this way, the Great Prayer Festival continues for four full days. On Day 5 of the Festival, it will begin with a morning session. Then the procession from Kopan Monastery to Boudhanath Stupa will commence. All the Sangha together will walk 4km to Boudhanath Stupa carrying the Buddha Maitreya statue. At the Stupa, the Monlam Abbot the Most Venerable Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tenzin, and the assembly of Sangha will make offering to and consecrate the Great Stupa in all four directions. After lunch at Kopan, extensive concluding offering and long, long dedication will be made. During Monlam, many, many offerings and light offerings will be made everyday. The merit from making offerings during these special days will be multiplied by 100 million times!

Offerings:"Offering even one cent to the Sangha community brings uncountable benefit and merit. As long as the Sangha community exists your merit exists. It will not be exhausted. When making the offering, in your mind dedicate strongly for your purpose and make strong prayers for all your wishes to be fulfilled."

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

January 26, 2010 at 5:04pm in Twin Flames Back to Twin Flames Discussions by rama http://evernewjoy.net/

I wanted to talk today about what True Male energy is, as the companion of the Goddess energy. :)

We have to restore the True Male energy, the power of your brain and nervous system, in order to continue the healing of ourselves and planet earth.

As the True Male / brain and nervous system energy is restored in all people, they will make wiser decisions and promote peace and harmony for the whole world.Whether you are a girl or a boy, you always have both True Male (Father God) and True Female (Mother Goddess) energies within you.

Although we all have both True Male and Goddess energies within us, I find that most people understand the Goddess energy much better than the True Male energy.

Chances are good you've probably never seen an example of what a real man, a real father, is like.

Very few males I have ever met know how to behave.

This is largely because they receive no training and don't realize that the True Male energy is the representative of the human brain and nervous system.

The True Male energy is very calm, very contemplative, slow to make decisions, very thoughtful, and he always make sure his Goddess is loved and adored.

The True Male energy is always kind, but firm when he needs to be.

The True Male energy can be loud like thunder, but just like thunder the True Male energy is never too loud, to the point of hurting the person he is interacting with.

Thunder is very loud, but is it ever too loud? Does it ever really break people?

Thunder is more of a wake-up call, a message, an instructor, and simply wants to make sure you are paying attention.

Thunder still loves you!

In fact, thunder is often loud SO THAT you stay alive and stay safe.

The True Male / Real Father energy is often loud to say:

WAKE UP, WAKE UP, WAKE UP, PAY ATTENTION!

So that you protect yourself and don't miss important opportunities in your life.So the Real Father / True Male energy is always loving and kind and is calm, cool, and thinks carefully before doing things.

By comparison, the Goddess energy of your being is firey and intense and tends to get things done a lot faster, without as much planning involved.

The True Male energy tends to plan more, and makes important decisions slowly.

The True Male energy of Creation gives you mental clarity, inner joy, enlightenment of the brain and nervous system, wisdom, guidance, and helps you answer questions that you have about your life.

Monday, January 18, 2010

Don't start anything in the subject area the retrograde planet pertains to. You'll probably have to start over again at some later stage.

Tip Deux: Two days before the planets stations (stops), before it either goes backward (retrograde) or forward (direct), all hell is going to break loose involving the subjects that the planet corresponds to.

Tip Trois: The day the planet turns direct and goes forward, magicks done in/for/with the subject matter of that planet will act like a slingshot. Though this extra energy is great, the old adage “Be careful what you wish for” applies here.

The Retrograde Planets and Majeeca

Mercury

Basic energy: Communication. Retrograde period: 3 times a year for about three weeks each retrograde period. How the bull shall thrash the China Shop: Fights, arguments, communication snafus of all kinds. Travel delays, electronic and mechanical breakdowns, misplacing items. Computer viruses. Bad time to buy computer related project or load software. Magick to do: Think before you speak. Read, study, contemplate, work on old written projects you began earlier, do family genealogy research, tie up loose ends on old projects, do magick for investigative issues. Use the day Mercury stations direct to slingshot magicks involving vision, clarity, and communication.

Venus

Basic energy: Socialization. Retrograde period: Occurs every 18 months and lasts 40 days. How the bicycle's chain will pop off: Affects relationships, dwindles ready cash, places blocks in the way of receiving small amounts of money; late payments or payments late; discussions on education always ensue but little is accomplished. People are attracted to the bizarre, unusual, or obscure. Not an ideal time to decorate your home or hire a decorator. Magick to do: Evaluate your relationships and how you behave within the confines of those relationships. Research the whereabouts of estranged family members or lost items. Use the day Venus stations direct to slingshot love magicks to give them extra oomph!

Mars

Basic energy: Action. Retrograde period: Every two years and two months for 70 weeks. How the banana will split: People are aggressive, won't take no for an answer, and refuse to look at the truth of the matter but plow on no matter how many individuals are hurt in the process. Brings confusion. Karmic matters. Old angers and resentments flair. Magick to do: Review your actions within the last two years since the last retrograde. Pay back bills and work for closure on old, hurtful issues. Meditate on your mission in life. Exercise daily. Do physical work. Use the day Mars stations direct to slingshot a special project into action.

Jupiter

Basic energy: Expansion. Retrograde period: Once a year for 120 days. How the cookie will crumble: Energy is constricted, limited, held back. Finances go down the tubes if you have not prepared. People are less likely to be generous. If a Jupiter retrograde falls over a holiday buying season, people may overspend or not be able to purchase what they intended. Physical problems from overindulgence may manifest now.

Magick to do: Work on inner changes rather than outer manifestations. Work on manipulating energy with your hands for healing purposes, and practice circlecastings. Expand your horizons by studying psychology, the nature of dreams, and learn about other cultures. Window shop.

Saturn

Basic energy: Limits. Retrograde period: Once a year for about 140 days. How the chips will fall: Rules that previously worked well, fail. Political and hierarchal individuals are ousted. Group structures change, bend, or break. Those in authority turn a deaf ear. Rewards either do not manifest as you expected, are delayed, or don't come to fruition at all. Requires you to face reality. Issues of abuse are often discovered, whether in the home, at work, or in other types of group formations. Magick to do: Banish unwanted influences in our lives—bad habits, negative associations, fears, friends, or organizations that are using us. Work on the structural change of ourselves. Restructure household chores, daily errands, etc for more favourable use of time. Use the day Saturn stations direct as a slingshot for anything positive involving groups, organizations, student or national government, and personal maturation cycles.

Uranus

Basic energy: Destruction. Retrograde period: Once a year for 148 days. How the house will be haunted: Freedoms are inhibited or threatened. Humanitarian issues stall and become lost either temporarily or permanently in proverbial red tape scenarios. Negativity of tribal behavior and gang activity increases. Slimeballs crawl out of the woodwork. Magick to do: As Uranus is retrograde almost half the year, its influences are not easy to discern, and issues regarding this energy manifest slowly. Use the Uranus station to direct group change or to work on bringing the “real” you more in focus with the mask you normally wear.

Neptune

Basic energy: Transformation. Retrograde period: Once a year for 150 days. How the wheel will turn: People tend to want to escape. Aggressive marketing techniques are bought easier by the public now as opposed to Neptune is direct. Drug, alcohol, and fantasy indulgence appear to rise. Slanderous and libelous accusations with no foundation slither from nowhere and are difficult to combat. Magick to do: Like Uranus retrograde energy, Neptune retrogrades last a long time, therefore changes aren't always apparent. Great for group ritual where we seek to unify with our perception of Spirit. Good for vision questing, meditation, dream analysis, mysticism, writing poetry, practicing magickal dance, drumming, sitting under a full moon and asking the Mother to guide us in word and deed, and workings on the personal unification of body, mind, and spirit. Talk to a butterfly, hug a tree, write your troubles on a piece of paper and give them to the Lady of the Lake. Use the Neptune station direct to slingshot you away from self-deceit or to help you learn to listen to the whispers of the universe.

Pluto

Basic energy: Regeneration. Retrograde period: Once a year for approx six months. How the tea will be served: On occasion, the shaking out of old stuff and turning sights to new ways for problem-solving makes the six o'clock news. People often choose a new religion or a new path right before or right after a Pluto retrograde. Magick to do: Clean everything. Throw out all the old junk. Use photography in magick and ritual. Redesign rituals, redo your BOS, go back and study areas that you thought were too difficult to tackle before. Use the slingshot station direct for a total new you.

Slow It Down Babee

[The planets don't need to be physically retrograde]

Mercury

If something is moving too fast and you want to slow it down (in the realm of communication), you can always place the Mercury retrograde symbol on a yellow candle asking that, as the candle burns, the problem slows down until you have time to deal with that situation properly, or until you have the answer you need to proceed in a fair

If you can't seem to hold on to your money, draw the Venus retrograde symbol on a white candle, and place that candle on top of the money you do have. Ask that you learn to slow down on your spending and hold on to present savings. If you think a relationship is moving too fast, draw the Venus retrograde symbol on a blue candle. Place the candle over a picture of yourself. Ask that the relationship slow down until you can think clearly about who you want to associate with and why you are really interested in that person. Ask for clarity of thought. Venus will grant your desire; she is after all the Greco-Roman goddess of love, relationships, and passion.

Mars

During a Mars retrograde, Spirit will show you who your friends are and who doesn't care a whit about you. Heads up.

Jupiter

Always have money in the bank before Jupiter goes retrograde, even if it is only a little bit. A Jupiter retrograde can expand on poverty as easily as it can expand your prosperity when it is direct. Be extra careful with your finances when Jupiter turns retrograde!

This info adapted from Silver RavenWolf's Retrogrades: Planets That Go Backward section in her book Solitary Witch, published by Llewellyn, Woodbury Minnesota (2007). Courtesy of SilverBear. Be kind and buy her book.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Love Is A Burning Thing. And It Makes A Fiery Ring. Bound By Wild Desire. I Fell Into A Burning Ring Of Fire. I Went Down, Down, Down. And The Flames Went Higher. And It Burns, Burns, Burns. The Ring Of Fire. The Ring of Fire. - Johnny Cashclick here to listen

Eclipse Earth Tsunami 'the earth actually split'

Hello friends. As I write this newsletter I am looking aghast at news footage of the devastating, literally cataclysmic 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti. This is an earth tsunami, with the death toll in the hundreds of thousands (and millions more affected), reminiscent of the horrifying tsnuami on December 26, 2004.

I just heard this statement by an American who witnessed the quake: "The earth actually split." For many of us, this is how it feels on multi-levels these days: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. The earth, and our world, is splitting.

Here is a comprehensive list of reputable charities RE Haiti: http://bit.ly/7it78a. Christine DeLorey writes, "We all need to help Haiti in some way right now - even if we just give it our full attention." http://wp.me/s6MGt-haiti

Astrologically, Friday January 15 is quite a packed day nestled in an equally eventful week. Mercury goes direct about 10 hours after the Solar Eclipse on January 15. Saturn goes retrograde two days before, and Jupiter moves into the sign of Pisces two days later.

"When several things like this happen at once, it's often considered to be a 'turning point'. Pay attention to what occurs on this date." -Madeline Gerwick

Oh and just so you know: the January 15, 2010 eclipse is Another Eclipse of the Century! This eclipse will be the millennium's longest annular solar eclipse, with a record 11 minutes and 8 seconds of annularity. An annular eclipse lasting longer than this one won't happen until the year 3043.

Scroll down for more information about the eclipse. NOTE: even if you read this newsletter after the day of the eclipse, it is still applicable because eclipse energies last for at least a month after the actual date of the eclipse.

Blessings of Compassion so that we may end the suffering of all sentient beings

To subscribe to this newsletter, go to www.threemoonocean.com and enter your email address into the sign-up box in the upper left corner.

To read back-issues of this newsletter, click the link below to visit the archive, or cut and paste the following url into your browser: http://tinyurl.com/6lnxmz.

I am still tweeting away on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/carolann3888 I welcome any and all of my readers to follow me. If you are interested in the subjects of this newsletter, inspirational quotes, and comments on the revolutionary forces of our times, come follow me:)

Eclipse Part One 11:11 balsamic

On Thursday/Friday January 14/15 2010 we will have a New Moon Annular Solar Eclipse at 25 degrees Capricorn. The Eclipse is exact at 2:06am EST (Jan 15) and is a Balsamic Moon. The New Moon is exact at 2:11am EST (Jan 15) and 11:11 pm PST (Jan 15).

The 11:11 time is significant for those on the West Coast of the United States. 11:11, as you may know, is a number of spiritual mastery and has been associated with the generation of 'lightworkers' on the planet right now. Many of us are thrilled by this number when we see it on a digital clock. It is an activation of our Source energy, a doorway.

This eclipse could be a mastery initiation for you. Especially if you live in California etc., you may want to meditate on the number 11:11 at the moment of the new moon and then the eclipse (5 minutes apart) to heighten your insights and provide inspiration.

The Balsamic moon is one of deep inner contemplation and letting go, counteracting (somewhat) the typical new-beginning energy of the new moon. So we are letting go and starting over simultaneously. And that is definitely typical of an eclipse, which is a kind of vortex that vacuums out the old and allows a void for the new to be born. Our New Year continues apace.

Eclipse Part Two the annular eclipse of the century

This solar eclipse is an annular eclipse of the Sun with a magnitude of 0.9190. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, thereby totally or partially obscuring Earth's view of the Sun. An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon's apparent diameter is smaller than the Sun, causing the sun to look like an annulus (ring). An annular eclipse will appear as partial eclipse outside the path of annularity. (Wiki)

This week's Annular (ring-shaped) Eclipse is more significant than most annular eclipses. The solar annulus (ring) is unusually wide. In addition, the moon at the time of this eclipse will be about as far away from the earth as it can be and will appear much smaller than average.

Even more compelling, the January 15, 2010 will be the millennium's longest annular solar eclipse, with a record 11 minutes and 8 seconds of annularity. An annular eclipse lasting longer than this one won't happen until the year 3043. (Ah! Another Eclipse of the Century!)

Annular solar eclipses create a weird sort of "counterfeit twilight" - different from the more complete darkness created by total solar eclipses. The counterfeit twilight of this eclipse will last unusually long, having more time to reveal more spookie things buried in our basements. http://bit.ly/7J0Ytf

Also interesting: this eclipse will make contact with two heavily-populated continents, including the huge city of Chongquing in China. This is the second central solar eclipse that has fallen over Chonquingin in less than six months. Chongquing, the largest and most populous of China's four provincial-level municipalities (population 31.4 million) was in the totality path of last summer's intense Total Solar Eclipse (7-22-09) and now finds itself squarely on the central line of this eclipse.

Eclipse Part Three Symbolism

On Friday part of the Sun will go missing. The missing piece is no cause for concern - the Moon will only be in the way momentarily. The Moon and the Sun meet and (because of the relatively large distance to the Moon during this Earth-Moon-Sun alignment) the Moon will not have a large enough angular size to block the entire Sun. (During a Total Solar Eclipse, the Moon blocks the Sun completely.) http://bit.ly/Worp4

And so, the moon will slowly cross the sun's path, blocking out everything but a thin, blazing rim of fire. The Sun appears as a very bright ring, or annulus, surrounding the outline of the Moon. A bright halo will grace the lunar edges - the coveted Ring of Fire, sought by eclipse chasers the world over - a dark Moon completely surrounded by the brilliant light of the distant Sun.

THE RING OF FIRE is a hoop you jump though, like at a circus. It can be an initiation into higher mysteries. "Love Is A Burning Thing. And It Makes A Fiery Ring. Bound By Wild Desire. The Ring of Fire." (Johnny Cash) And the quest for the Precious coveted Ring can become epic in more ways than one.

THE ECLIPSE EYEBALLS: please watch this fascinating animation of the January 14/15, 2010 Annular Solar Eclipse: http://tinyurl.com/cdk2f6. Just sit and watch it for a moment. As the eclipse streams across it's path on the face of the earth, the sun turns into an eyeball - which is looking at you. After looking into your soul, it swings its spotlight into outer space. As if it's scanning you and transferring the information to some great database somewhere. Or perhaps it is scanning the Universe to download the information into you - ?

Speaking of eyes, did you know the sun's rays during any solar eclipse (total, annular, partial, whatever) causes irreversible damage to the human eye? Our (inner) Vision is highlighted under solar eclipses. Look, but LOOK CAREFULLY. And the changes occuring under a solar eclipse are irreversible.

The 'counterfeit twilight' aspect of an annular eclipse provides the required jittery nature of the solar eclipse when daylight is trumped by night. Twilight is a kind of 'tween' space - somewhere between day and night, between sleeping and waking - another dimension that slides in right next to ordinary reality. This Twilight Zone vibe unearths weird fears and sci-fi fantasies to be explored.

Indeed, this eclipse has a general futuristic qualitiy to it (North Node). It is associated with our collective destiny, a reference point for humanity's evolution.

The Haiti earthquake has all the EYES of the world looking at unbearable suffering in a part of the world which is already impoverished and beaten-down. What will Haiti look like in the future? We can't control earthquakes but we can diminish extreme poverty.

Eclipse Part Four The Path

The January 14/15, 2010 Annular Solar Eclipse moves along a 186-mile-wide track that traverses half of Earth. It first 'touches down' on Lake Victoria (the largest tropical lake, and the second widest fresh water lake in the world). The eclipse is then visible across virtually all of the eastern half of the African continent, the lower halves of Jordan, Saudi Arabia, YEMEN and Madagascar.

As the eclipse moves on, the capital city of the African Republic, Bangui (population 532,000), will be treated to the spectacle of the Sun mimicking a blazing ring of fire for 4 mins 2 seconds. Nairobi (the most populous city in East Africa with an estimated urban population between 3 and 4 million) will also witness the ringed sun. From Kampala it will last 7 mins 36 seconds.

Then at 12:06 pm EST the moment of greatest eclipse (maximum of 11 Mins and 7.7 seconds) is attained at a point over open waters. Next is the Maldives capital Male, where the ring forms and persists for 10 mins 45 seconds, almost the maximum possible, the longest duration of any city having and international airport in the eclipse track. These tiny Maldives islands are the best spot for viewing this eclipse from land.

As the eclipse moves on, Sri Lanka's capital of Columbo and the Indian city of Chennai (formerly known as Madras, population 4.2 million) will see a Sun which resembles a narrow horseshoe with pointed tips.

Later, the eclipse takes about 10 minutes to move across northern BURMA. Then at 1:41pm EST, for the third time in 17 months, the path of a central solar eclipse will enter China. Then it will cross the the southern foot of the HIMALAYAS.

The eclipse then passes over the same regions that witnessed the Great Total Solar Eclipse of July 22, 2009 - Chongquing was in the totality path last summer and now finds itself squarely on the central line of this eclipse.

Finally as the eclipse races to its conclusion, the crescent of the Sun becomes thinner but its horns grown downward like a pair of pincers. the above information is sourced from from Guy Ottewel's Astronomical Calendar 2010

Then: "With final swift simultaneity, the center of the shadow then reaches the sunset rim of the Earth and slips back out into space." Guy Ottewel, Astronomical Calendar 2010 - this scientist is a poet and may not even know it :)

As for the some of the key places twilighted by this eclipse:

YEMEN has been in the news lately: "Christmas bomber 'trained' by Al-Qaeda in Yemen" http://bit.ly/5riNny

THE HIMALAYAS are sacred to Buddhism, and Buddhism has been attacked in the Western media lately: "No Excuse for this much ignorance about Buddhism" http://bit.ly/5csJX3

Note: I have converted the eclipse times given above (and in the next section) into Eastern Standard time so that those in my neck of the woods can tune in to the key moments of the eclipse in real time. (It's easy to convert from EST to your time zone. Click here to do so: http://bit.ly/RkquN)

Eclipse Part Five Enter the Temple

At 6:20pm EST on Friday January 15, the annular eclipse will appear over India, viewable for a full 10.4 mins. The centre line of the eclipse will pass about 1 mile east of the sacred Kodandaramar Temple.

This river facing shrine looks humble but is religiously significant. Hindus honor it as the place where Lord Rama crowned Sugriva as the King of Kishkhinda. The rectangular "Garbha Gruha" of the temple contains 15-foot standing figures of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana. These figures are carved out of natural boulder.

Just behind the temples of Kodanda Rama are the temples for Sudarshana in the shape of a human figure with sixteen hands and Yantrodharaka Anjaneya or Hanuman. The sacred bathing spot in front is one of the holiest spots for pilgrims to nearby Hampi. You can reach Kondandrama temple only by walking along the riverbank. During peak monsoon season the riverwater rises and sometimes reaches up to the temple courtyard. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. http://bit.ly/728ZOZ

Here are some pictures of this ancient sacred temple: http://bit.ly/7PSyR0

LISTEN with your spiritual ears at 6:20pm EST (adjust for your timezone) on Friday. Tune into the energies of Krishna, Rama, Sita, Hanuman and Lakshmi. The eclipse opens the door to this temple's mysteries.

If you love Kirtan chant (as I do) this would be a great time to chant. Here is one of Krishna Das' many exquisite Kirtan chants http://bit.ly/4QgbFF. You can easily download many more to use in your practice.

Eclipse Part Six family

Not only do eclipses travel in pairs (like lovebirds) but they have many kinds of relationships. They even have families, just like us.

Every eclipse belongs to a series of similar eclipses 18 years and 11 days apart. This is called the Saros Cycle. The January 15, 2010 eclipse is a part of Saros cycle 141, (http://bit.ly/8cM0OK) which contains 70 events. The series started with a partial solar eclipse on May 19, 1613. It contains annular eclipses from August 4, 1739 through October 14, 2460. There are no total eclipses in this series. The series ends at member 70 as a partial eclipse on June 13, 2857. Series members 17-28 occur between 1901 and 2100. http://bit.ly/51D2a0.

And so the predecessor of the January 15, 2010 eclipse was another long annular one about 18 years ago on January 4, 1992 (spanning the North Pacific Ocean and ending at the southern California coast.) NOTICE: Again, we see California surfacing for emphasis. The 11:11 energies are present (see section 1, above).

This ecipse is in the zodiac sign of Capricorn. So there is another time period up for review. I.e. eclipses on this axis also occurred July 2000 to December 2002. Looking back is very helpful in checking your spiritual evolution:

"What were you doing 19 years ago? Did you resolve something, or just repress it? You may not have known at the time, but you're finding out now. Is it back to bite you in the behind, or, will you ascend and transcend to a new phase of awareness? In either case, change is afoot, and we have the wonderful chance to break out of the frozen habits of the past." (Via Simone Butler, quoting Daykeeper Journal http://bit.ly/84skTG)

In addition, the January 15, 2010 eclipse also hearkens back to the 'eclipse of the century' which occurred on July 22, 2009. That eclipse occurred at 29 degrees of Cancer 27 minutes (a critical degree). The January 15, 2010 eclipse occurs at 25 degrees of Capricorn - nearly exactly opposite in the sky.

You are in a crucible, in the midst of cycles within cycles. The work you started, the change that began back in July 2009 is just getting started, and many doors to the past are closing.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

THE SEVEN GREAT ARCHANGELSThe Seven Great Archangels represent the seven primary feelings, the Rays with their Aspects and Attributes that is the Divine Dispensation. These Attributes must be developed within the nature of Humankind in order to attain Masterhood. Each Ray dominates in your astrological chart as in the monadic, soul, astral, mental personality and the physical . They bring forth the force of Love energy of the Divine. Three distinct types of Intelligent Life, Angels, Humanity and Elementals were brought forth to unfold their Divine Natures on this Planet Earth.

Their combined energies were ordained to weave the spiritual bridge to tie the Earth to the Heart of God. The Angelic Host came forth under the direction of the Seven Great Archangels who came from the Great Central Sun. The Elohim had prepared the Planets out of the primordial energy and unformed Light Body of the Creator.

The Seven Great Archangels their Divine feminine counterpart and their appointed Seven Great Rays, colours, chakras, and corresponding Glands.

ARCHANGEL MICHAELRay one and Archangel Michael purpose is to be able to see the beauty existing in all things, to balance opposing tendencies in order to bring about a greater harmony.

Master the art of living, to be the Divine Artist, one who seeks to raise humanity's consciousness through the realizations of the beauty and harmony existing in nature and in the world of forms,by being a mediator between heaven and earth.

Ask for Archangel Michael to assist you in the quality of leadership that you need to take.

He will guide and protect you as you move through the shadows of illusion into the eternal light of truth. After you have earned the right to, once again, use the energies of the "First Ray", you can activate and enhance its powers by visualizing a ray of brilliant blue light, tinged with flames of deep red. Bath yourself in this beautiful energy by standing in a beam of this Divine light. Use with moderation, this ray can be very intense.

ARCHANGEL JOPHIELLove is force . The Angels come from the heart of God.With love comes the opening up of all wisdom that there is. Conversely, when all of wisdom is yours, you can't be anything but love.

Who better than the Angels to teach us the Heart of God. Archangel Jophiel and The Second Ray helps one to look at wisdom from the perspective of love. Love is a force.

Ideals must be goals attainable at a given level of movement. As each ideal is attained, then set higher ones. But if ideals have been set with unrealistic expectation of the ego, at some time they will stop becoming ideals and they will become causes of pain and suffering, causes of disappointment and resentment. The angel Jophiel lovingly helps you set your ideals and attain goals.

Monadic Ray is love wisdom, come from that largest aspect of energy that directly emanates love wisdom. It can do this by a process of teaching but it can also do this by just subtle emanations. Those hermits, sages sitting in silence and yet are all there, emanate this love wisdom. In physical manifestation they enjoy knowledge. The heart rejoices at the aspect of learning something new. When the soul draws you towards wisdom, the Personality will also strive to access knowledge and knowledge will be instantly applied and become wisdom.

ARCHANGEL CHAMUELHumanity came from the mind of God and all the angels from the heart of God. Both are the same in the eyes of God. "Heart and Mind". Yet humanity with it's duality can only have the mind and the lower mental. The Divine Plan is that angels, elementals, and humanity must evolve onto to the way back home. Archangel Chamuel has the task of gently ushering humanity with active intelligence to think that universal truth is not static.It is dynamic and it is constantly changing.

A few human incarnations have come to help in the process of thought, in order to aid the monadic families to rewrite the truth as pertinent to those. A marvelous responsibility. The monadic ray thinker is the abstract thinker. Utopia. Paradise. Shambala. The ray of active intelligence, there is awareness of all that is around. Observing, looking and seeing, thinking and recognizing the need for change.

The change that is necessary. Sometimes humanity knows what is to be changed but is not able to apply it. Archangel Chamuel assists in the study and the action to be able to manifest it.

ARCHANGEL GABRIELGabriel's interest in this planet is probably due to his function as heavenly awakener, the angel of vibratory transformation, the Ray 4.

As we live in a constant conflict, Gabriel is our most frequent visitor from the higher realms. Gabriel in Hebrew means 'man of God', and is seen as God's messenger.

The ray 4 can be used as a conscious deliberate tool in your life. Then you will stop fighting its power. When you are in the midst of a conflict, may it be mental, emotional or physical, use the power Archangel Gabriel, to focus on that conflicting situation in order to bring it quickly to its resolution.

Ray 4 does not create conflict in order to bring trouble. It does it in order to create harmony and Archangel Gabriel will assist you in it. Do it in awareness. Ray 4 can only work through accelerated conflict.Not all welcome this path to resolution.

ARCHANGEL RAPHAELRaphael is perhaps the most endearing of all the angels. He is the high archangel charged with healing of the Earth. Raphael is the travelers guide, guardian of youth. Archangel Raphael is the angel for the 5th Ray of Concrete Knowledge, Sciences and Intelligence. It is that ray that you call upon when you wish to learn any stream of knowledge, whether it is pure sciences, or applied sciences, whether it is medicine or engineering, whether it is in your field of computers or it is as abstract as astrology, whether it is perfect or completely incorrect.

Any kind of science. Knowledge and its structured learning require the potency of Archangel Raphael and Ray 5. In spirit world, ray 5 is very, very vital because unlike other realms where knowledge is inherent, and unforgotten, in human realm knowledge is neither inherent nor is it remembered. The spirit realm is a realm which deliberately and consciously chooses streams of knowledge. With the help of Archangel Raphael deliberately and consciously attempt to understand and then remember it. Using this ray as though you are using a silver laser beam, allow this silver laser beam to focus on those parts of the physical brain that are involved in the learning. Because of the lack of that stream of knowledge you may not even know which part of your brain needs this but the silver laser will. But you have to call upon Archangel Raphael and ask help in the Light has still so much left to create. And it is waiting, deliberating, what it should create next and when it does, it leaves this task to the Archangel Raphael and monadic family of ray 5to create the rules, structures, norms, standards for this new knowledge.It is Archangel Raphael who puts the thought in the minds of men.

ARCHANGEL URIELRay six a ray for religion and devotion. Little was understood about the ray six. It was meant to bring devotion and structure. Many masters came into physical incarnation to teach humanity. Scattered knowledge needed the mastery of the Masters. Then the masters withdrew hoping that those in physical form would continue. But, there was little understanding of the self. All that was being practiced was dogma and rituals all in the name of devotion and service. The Divine withdrew the Ray six. The sixth Ray souls come from a family of souls only that are meant to serve. Theirs is the strongest connection to the Angelic Realm. They are only there to serve. When the path is of dedication, service and devotion Archangels Uriel holds out his hand and gently guides the person through, sometimes through a difficult path. Service and devotion brings at times great adversity. Call on the Archangel Uriel to be with you. It is a powerful ray and the Archangel of Salvation Uriel will guide you through.

ARCHANGEL ZADKIELThe seventh Ray , the ray of the earthly realm, A wonderful ray of manifestation. It has been labeled as magic because in the earthly realms, manifestation is considered magical, miraculous. It is not something that happens on a regular basis . Archangel Zadkiel and the ray wish this to change. Magic in everyday life. Belief in Manifestation. It must now become the standard, the norm, the expected, not the unexpected, not the unknown, not the mysterious. The evolution of the self. In the new energies of the higher dimensions, earth and humanity are ready for manifestation, deliberate, conscious, willed manifestation, to make possible that which you desire. If humanity is the mirror of the Divine, then, humanity too must manifest.

The ray has come in at a unique moment in our time frame. Humanity has not completely entered the 5th dimensional realm of the spirit. Yet, humanity is not in the 3rd dimensional realm of the ego. Into this change and turmoil realm enters the 7th ray, giving both spirit and ego the strength to manifest. And so ego is equally strong in its manifestation as spirit, and often stronger in those whose identity with spirit is still fuzzy.

Spirit is in fact joyous and spontaneous. Spirit does not require sacrifice, it does not require suppression, it does not require dedicated burdening of self. The world of old laboriously practiced devotion and dedication and idealism. The whole process of ascension becomes a tedious chore. The angels understand the mastery of the universe and aid in manifestation. A thought here, a quiet nudge they are doing the Divine work for your Light body activation.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Lunar Planner Synopsis Unlike the last few lunar cycles which may have seemed a bit intense, and leaving us with a feeling of uncertainty, this lunar cycle and the next will be more progressive, restoring a sense of movement with optimism for the future. This New Moon, an Annular Solar Eclipse, occurs exactly on the cusp of sidereal Sagittarius-Capricorn. It also conjoins Venus, which also marks the mid-point of vision and realization in the current 584-day Earth-Venus cycle; and it occurs during Mercury's direct station (the completion of Mercury's retrograde). Cuspal sidereal Sagittarius-Capricorn is where we are faced with concretizing our visions and ideals (common to late Sagittarius and overseeing Lyra) into demonstrable and practical form in the physical world. Alpha Pavo, the Peacock, sums up the last degree of sidereal Sagittarius, fully radiant in its multi-colored spectrum of vision and ideals, proudly displays all that it is and brings inspiration to express the beauty that we are and that we truly envision. Here on the cusp, we find soul-level support provided by Eta Mensa (of Table Mountain) to now actualize that eloquence. We are also faced with addressing the inherent aberrations or distortions that occur when applying our ideals into practical demonstrable and physical form, revealed by a Planetary Nebula and Irregular Galaxy of Sagittarius, which reach just over the cusp into sidereal Capricorn. Two pulsars in northern Vulpecula, the elegant, but sly and cunning fox, aid us and warn us when applying the lofty ideals of the Sagittarian Zen archer into physical form.

Venus will start a new (synodic) cycles with Chiron, Neptune, and Jupiter in this lunar cycle, These are the first Venus cycles occurring with these planets after our recent Jupiter-Neptune-Chiron conjunction occurring in 2009.

Mars, currently retrograde, will begin a new and significant Earth-Mars 780-day (synodic) cycle when the Sun, Earth and Mars align on the Full Moon eve of January 29, 2010. This cycle's theme is defined by the star alignments looking from the Sun toward Earth and Mars, which occurs in the center of sidereal Cancer. Mars will complete its retrograde on March 10, 2010, in the following lunar cycle, at which time we will fully engage in the new Earth-Mars synodic cycle. During its retrograde, Mars also aspects the already occurring Saturn-Pluto square along with Jupiter, all occurring later in this lunar cycle. In a several day process, Jupiter, Pluto, Saturn and Mars create two interlocking Yods. One places a direct focus onto Mars and the new Mars synodic cycle. The other emphasis is placed upon Jupiter.

Saturn and Pluto have maintained a very tight square since the Saturn-Pluto square began in mid-November 2009 through the second conjunction occurring on January 31, 2010. As we emerge from the second Saturn-Pluto square, and the interlocking Yods (Finger of God) occur with Mars and Jupiter, we are motivated to initiate expansive action. This movement however does not occur on its own. It is up to us to creatively make this move from what may seem like a motionless and undefined opening (occurring throughout late December and January).

This entire Mars retrograde period and the interlocking Yods play a key role in establishing a new focus in the application of our creative power in the world.

These are just a few of many events occurring in this lunar cycle, one that engages a dynamic and transformative new year. The Lunar Planner explores the details of the events occurring in each lunar cycle, based in star-level astronomical astrology and synodic astrology.

The Magician is the archetype of the active, masculine principle - the ultimate achiever. He symbolizes the power to tap universal forces and use them for creative purposes. Note his stance in the picture. He acts as a lightening rod - one arm extended up into the Divine for inspiration, the other pointing toward Earth to ground this potent energy. [note] His abilities appear magical at times because his will helps him achieve what seem to be miracles.

What makes the Magician so powerful? First, he is not afraid to act. He believes in himself and is willing to put that belief on the line. He also knows what he intends to do and why. He doesn't hesitate because he understands his situation exactly. The Magician can focus with single-minded determination. As long as he remembers the divine source of his power, the Magician remains the perfect conduit for miracles.

In a reading, the Magician implies that the primal forces of creativity are yours if you can claim your power and act with awareness and concentration. This card is a signal to act and act now, provided you understand exactly what you want and are committed to getting it.

accessing the unconscious using your intuitionseeking guidance from withintrusting your inner voiceopening to dreams and the imaginationbeing aware of a larger reality

seeing the potential understanding the possibilitiesopening to what could beseeing your hidden talentsallowing developmentletting what is there flower

sensing the mystery looking beyond the obviousapproaching a closed off areaopening to the unknownremembering something importantsensing the secret and hiddenseeking what is concealedacknowledging the Shadow

OPPOSING CARDS: Some Possibilities

Magician - acting consciously, thinking, the known and obvious Two of Wands - acting boldly Seven of Wands - being aggressive Eight of Wands - putting plans into action

The High Priestess is the guardian of the unconscious. She sits in front of the thin veil of unawareness which is all that separates us from our inner landscape. She contains within herself the secrets of these realms and offers us the silent invitation, "Be still and know that I am God."

The High Priestess is the feminine principle that balances the masculine force of the Magician. The feminine archetype in the tarot is split between the High Priestess and the Empress. The High Priestess is the mysterious unknown that women often represent, especially in cultures that focus on the tangible and known. The Empress represents woman's role as the crucible of life.

In readings, the High Priestess poses a challenge to you to go deeper - to look beyond the obvious, surface situation to what is hidden and obscure. She also asks you to recall the vastness of your potential and to remember the unlimited possibilities you hold within yourself. The High Priestess can represent a time of waiting and allowing. It is not always necessary to act to achieve your goals. Sometimes they can be realized through a stillness that gives desire a chance to flower within the fullness of time.

The Empress and the High Priestess are the two halves of the female archetype in the major arcana. The Empress represents the fertile, life-giving Mother who reigns over the bounty of nature and the rhythms of the Earth. From her comes all the pleasures and joys of the senses and the abundance of new life in all its forms. The Empress encourages you to strengthen your connections with the natural world which is the ground of our being. Too often false sophistications and pleasures take us far from our roots. Let the Empress remind you to keep your feet firmly planted in the Earth.

In readings the Empress can refer to any aspect of Motherhood. She can be an individual mother, but as a major arcana card, she also goes beyond the specifics of mothering to its essence - the creation of life and its sustenance through loving care and attention.

The Empress can also represent lavish abundance of all kinds. She offers a cornucopia of delights, especially those of the senses - food, pleasure and beauty. She can suggest material reward, but only with the understanding that riches go with a generous and open spirit. The Empress asks you to embrace the principle of life and enjoy its bountiful goodness.

Monday, January 11, 2010

The Power of Imagination, by Ben-ArionPosted by Ben-Arion on January 11, 2010 at 4:15pm

By Ben-Arion

February 18 2009 the Ashtar Command Crew website was re-launched, its almost 1 year ago.Since then all of you have contributed with your love, to make this website what it is.

Is Ashtar Command a religion? No it isnt. But i had to choose a some sort of label of this website, where we could gather. Ashtar Command is a well known energy, but we cannot attach with labels, the importance is beyond Labels, its LOVE.

See Ashtar Command Crew as a library of information, on all sorts of topics.When many people come together as one and with one intent, things can change drasticly and quick. Joy and Love is a natural part of living, we have to embrace this simple way, were in this together.

I would compare it to an Anchor which has grounded into the earth and human nature, transforming things from within, in a very beautiful way.

The Power of Imagination

I get many questions, how to do this, and how to reach that etc. What if the answer is just as simple as, use your imagination. Thoughts cannot give you answers, thoughts are just temporary waves, that can change at any moment. Knowledge is in your imagination. I imagined this website, and now youre all here.

How things unfold isnt important, whats important is how you choose to embrace the Now moment.You cannot change the Now moment. Practice to be in the moment, focus on your breath ortry to feel your heartbeats in your body. Thoughts are actually all around us, in wave frequency form,we sometimes tune in to the Thoughts of humanity and channel them through our body.

Whats this say? Thoughts isnt always your own, its shared and broadcastedlike a radio station. What FM are you listening to?

Can you imagine how it would be to break free from limited thinking and tune into a higher frequency that is in harmony with your heart? Its possible. Listen to the silence andbecome aware of this broadcast that is within you, the GOD CHANNEL.This channel feels different for everyone.

You eneterd into this Body, its not your body, its actually a part of Mother earth.The body and earth is connected, see it as a very advanced space suit.

Thoughts is like a fog, hiding the Blissfull silence, containing all there is.

I created Ashtar Command Crew, because we will be more and more who remembersthe Power of Love, its really simple. awaken to love and you cannot go back tolimitation again. Things will evolve Qicker and quicker.

First Contact procedure will come naturally, we cannot know it all. Let it be a surprise, letthey handle the planning. Focus on Love, you always know what to do in each moment.You came here to anchor Love, by being an Example. Be the change.

Practice Love, Practice Patience, you are the one who will make a change, by tuning intoyour joy. More and more poeple will tune into the LOVE RADIO STATION andwe will feel eachother, it will flood this earth and there is no turning back!Are you with me...

Imagine your own teachings

You are your own teacher, imagine your own way and share it with others.We all have LOVE in common, the rest is EXPRESSION, expression have eternal possibilities.

Change is Brewing in this moment.

To be openminded and have a Loving approach is a great beginning, let the change flow through you and let the Love in. No one can convert any other into Beliefs, beliefs are belief, knowing is knowing.

Ascension is an imprinted word in our minds, do not forget the simplicity of it, its just a change of perspective.Now is the time to choose with the heart which world we want to live in. The purpose is to Evolve earth and mankind into a Higher state of Mind and awareness of itself.

Listen to the GOD channel within you, do it as a daily practice, in your own unique way.There is no Wrong way to GOD.

Clinging to Old beliefs etc will not be possible the coming years, people can resist change or embrace it.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

fathering establishing a family linesetting direction and toneprotecting and defendingguiding growthbringing security and comfortoffering explanations

emphasizing structure creating order out of chaoscategorizingbeing systematicproviding shape and formbeing organizedapplying reasoncoordinatingsticking to a plan

exercising authority taking a leadership rolecommandingexerting controlrepresenting the establishmentbeing in a position of strengthcoming in contact with officialssetting direction

regulating establishing law and orderoperating from sound principlesapplying rules or guidelinesworking within the legal systemsetting standards of behaviorfollowing a regimen

OPPOSING CARDS: Some Possibilities

Empress - mothering, free-flowing abundance Seven of Cups - dissipation, lack of order Five of Swords - bending the rules, breaking the law

REINFORCING CARDS: Some Possibilities

Hierophant - conforming to rules Justice - concerns of justice and legality Two of Wands - having authority Three of Wands - assuming leadership Four of Pentacles - control, structure, order

DESCRIPTION

The figure of the Emperor says much about the essential qualities of this card. We see a stern, commanding figure seated on a stone-slab throne. His back is straight, and his eyes meet ours directly. He is confident of his complete authority to rule.

The Emperor represents structure, order and regulation - forces to balance the free-flowing, lavish abundance of the Empress. He advocates a four-square world where trains are on time, games are played by rules, and commanding officers are respected. In chaotic situations, the Emperor can indicate the need for organization. Loose ends should be tied up, and wayward elements, harnessed. In situations that are already over-controlled, he suggests the confining effect of those constraints.

The Emperor can represent an encounter with authority or the assumption of power and control. As the regulator, he is often associated with legal matters, disciplinary actions, and officialdom in all its forms. He can also stand for an individual father or archetypal Father in his role as guide, protector and provider.

getting an education pursuing knowledgebecoming informedincreasing understandingstudying and learningseeking a deeper meaningfinding out more

having a belief system sharing a cultural heritagelearning a religious traditionhonoring ritual and ceremonyidentifying a world viewfollowing a disciplineknowing where to put your faith

conforming following the rulestaking an orthodox approachstaying within conventional boundsadapting to the systemfitting ingoing along with the programdoing what's expectedbeing part of the Establishment

identifying with a group being committed to a causedevoting energy to a groupjoining an organizationworking as part of a teamfeeling loyal to othersbeing in an institutionalized setting

OPPOSING CARDS: Some Possibilities

Fool - being "crazy" and unorthodox Lovers - personal beliefs Two of Wands - diverging from the crowd, being a pioneer Seven of Swords - being a lone wolf Two of Pentacles - being flexible, changing with the times

REINFORCING CARDS: Some Possibilities

Emperor - following rules Three of Cups - focusing on the group Three of Pentacles - working in a team or group Eight of Pentacles - learning, studying Ten of Pentacles - conforming, following rules, conservative

DESCRIPTION

Except in rare cases, every human grows and develops within a culture. We learn by living with others. The Hierophant represents such official learning, especially in groups. A Hierophant is someone who interprets secret knowledge. On Card 5 we see a religious figure in a formal church setting. He is wearing the elaborate vestments of his office. His task is to bring the two initiates into the church so they can take up their appointed roles.

Besides churches, there are schools, clubs, teams, companies, and societies. The Hierophant represents all of these because his realm is structured groups with rules and assigned roles. Such environments emphasize belief systems - facts, rules, procedures, and ritual. Members are rewarded for following conventions. They develop a group identity. The Hierophant is one of three cards that focuses on the group. (The 3 of Cups and the 3 of Pentacles are the others.)

In readings, the Hierophant often represents learning with experts or knowledgeable teachers. This card also stands for institutions and their values. The Hierophant is a symbol of the need to conform to rules or fixed situations. His appearance in a reading can show that you are struggling with a force that is not innovative, free-spirited or individual. Groups can be enriching or stifling, depending on circumstances. Sometimes we need to follow a program or embrace tradition, other times, we need to trust ourselves.

The Lovers is one card that is easy to remember. Love and sex are riveting subjects, and, as you'd expect, this card represents both. The urge for union is powerful, and, in its highest form, takes us beyond ourselves. That is why an angel is blessing the bond between the man and woman on this card.

In readings, Card 6 often refers to a relationship that is based on deep love - the strongest force of all. The relationship may not be sexual, although it often is or could be. More generally, the Lovers can represent the attractive force that draws any two entities together in a relationship - whether people, ideas, events, movements or groups.

Card 6 can also stand for tough value choices and the questioning that goes with them. In some decks, the Lovers shows a man torn between two women - a virgin and a temptress. This rather old-fashioned triangle symbolizes the larger dilemmas we face when we are tempted between right and wrong.

The Lovers can indicate a moral or ethical crossroads - a decision point where you must choose between the high road or the low road. This card can also represent your personal beliefs because to make such a decision you must know where you stand. Following your own path can mean going against those who are urging you in a direction that is wrong for you.

Magician - using your will, concentrating Two of Wands - being in authority, dominating Six of Wands - triumph, self-confidence Four of Pentacles - control Nine of Pentacles - self-control, discipline

DESCRIPTION

Picture Julius Caesar riding his chariot triumphantly into Rome. He has defeated his enemies and conquered vast, new lands. This is the spirit of the Chariot. Card 7 represents the victories that are possible through willpower and self-mastery. A military image is appropriate for the Chariot because this card stands for the strengths associated with combat - discipline, grit, determination and assertiveness.

The Chariot represents the positive aspects of the ego. A healthy ego is one that is strong and self-assured. It knows what it wants and how to get it. We can get annoyed at someone whose ego is too healthy, but we often turn to that person to lead us through difficult moments. We know he or she won't be wishy-washy.

In readings, the Chariot often appears when hard control is or could be in evidence. At its best, hard control is not brutal, but firm and direct. It is backed up by a strong will and great confidence. The Chariot can mean self-control or control of the environment. This card also represents victory. There are many types of wins; the Chariot's is of the win-lose type. Your success comes from beating the competition to become number one. Such moments are glorious in the right circumstances.

Usually we think of strength in physical terms - big arms, powerful legs - but there is also inner strength. Inner strength comes from an exercise of the heart muscle. It is perseverance, courage, resolve and composure - qualities that help us endure when times are tough. In the past, a person with inner strength was commonly said to have character; he or she could be counted on in the darkest moments. Card 8 represents this energy of quiet determination. Strength is not a flashy card, but one that is solid and reliable.

Card 8 also represents patience and compassion. Getting angry is easy when events turn sour, but dealing calmly with frustration takes great strength. So does accepting others and forgiving mistakes. We need strength to mold situations softly. The Chariot controls through mastery and authority. Card 8 is more subtle, even loving. Notice how the lion (itself a symbol of strength) is being guided and tamed by the woman's gentle hands.

Card 8 will appear in a reading when its qualities are needed. It can be a reminder not to despair or give up. You have the inner strength to endure and triumph. If you are pushing too hard, you need to withdraw for the moment and be patient. If other people or circumstances are driving you crazy, remember the strength that comes with love and forbearance. These will see you through the hardest moments.

Saturday, January 9, 2010

The New Year in Melbourne began with a massive electrical storm that threatened the fireworks. But ultimately fireworks, thunder and lightning cooperated and many Melburnians enthusiastically cheered in the New Year despite being soaked to the bone. This along with the sudden change from summer to winter temperatures, brings to mind the strong role of Uranus in 2010.

Lightning = Uranus. Unexpected turns of event = Uranus. From one extreme to another = Uranus (see more on Uranus in December's Cosmic Update). In May 2010, Uranus switches into Aries (after being in Pisces for nearly 7 years) and joins with Saturn and Pluto to create a 'Cardinal T-square'. Astrologers have been pondering this upcoming Cardinal T-square for quite some time and we're all pretty much agreed it's a huge alignment that accelerates the 2012 themes of large-scale change.

I'll discuss the Uranus-Saturn-Pluto Cardinal T-square in May, but the eclipse on New Year's Day gave us a taste of that upcoming alignment. The second January eclipse on the 15th is likely to do so even more strongly. Yes, there are two eclipses in January! These always bring shake-ups of some kind, even if only changes of perception that change our behaviour. The next eclipses won't be until June-July. Eclipses are Uranian in nature. It's as if the lights go out momentarily (either the light of the Sun or Moon, depending on which is being eclipsed) and when they get switched back on something is different.

The Full Moon partial eclipse on 1 January saw the Moon momentarily overshadowed. The Moon relates to our deepest security needs. The Full Moon was in Cancer, the Moon's own zodiac sign. A wet fireworks display in a booming thunderstorm might've shaken up a few comfort zones. Throughout 2010 the South Node remains in Cancer indicating an overhaul of our usual comforts/habits going on in the background all year. This begs the question - how well do we care for ourselves when things get a bit topsy turvy? Another Moon/Cancer theme is family. At the New Year did we feel connected with loved ones who are likely to support our growth throughout 2010? It's important this year to strenghten our internal ability to cope with fluctuations to our basic needs as well as forge mutually supportive links with people we trust, while focussing less on connections that undermine us.

The second eclipse on 15 January has Venus travelling alongside it at the exact same degree. Venus relates to our values, relationships and money. Venus is in Saturn's sign Capricorn - a zodiac sign very much concerned with resources, especially how we go about accumulating and using them. The day before the eclipse, Capricorn's ruler Saturn shifts retrograde. An eclipse in Capricorn at the very time that Saturn, its ruling planet goes Retrograde, draws huge attention to Capricorn themes, some of which are: hard work, time pressures, commitments, climbing to the top, status, governments, authorities, have's vs have-nots, reality checks. With Venus so prominent at this eclipse, relationships are likely to be challenged to go to the next level (Capricorn commitment) or to call it a day (Capricorn reality check). We might also need to face a few financial realities - either in cutting back spending or committing to bigger investments. It's important to be cautious and sensible at this time. Living on hope doesn't work when Capricorn is strong.

Saturn is one of the planets in the Cardinal T-square in May, showing that Capricorn themes will remain emphasised throughout the year. In addition, the North Node is in Capricorn all year, asking us to 'grow up' and take responsibility. But for what? Too many of us already feel overburdened by the weight of responsibility across many areas of life. The answer to that question seems to lie in the Retrograde planets. January started with both Mercury and Mars Retrograde. By mid-month, Mercury goes forward again, but by then Saturn is Retrograde, so no matter which way we look at it January has two planets retrograde at any given time encouraging introspection, taking things slowly and reassessing the themes of the zodiac signs the planets are Retrograde in. Those zodiac signs are Capricorn (Mercury is Retro in Capricorn); Leo (Mars is Retro in Leo) and Libra (Saturn is Retro in Libra).

The number of people who've had major endings under Mercury and Mars Retro in December 09 (relationships, jobs and more) seems unusually high. Men seem particuarly affected, given that Mars is associated with men, but of course women have a masculine side too. Anything to do with going out after what we want might feel stalled when Mars is Retro. The January eclipses and then Saturn shifting Retro are likely to continue the theme of life seemingly going backwards or being thrown into upheaval before moving forwards again. Yet if we are able to claim some private time to focus on what we really want, we can make huge progress in the background. Mars intensifies our passions and drives. External demands on our personal time might frustrate us because we have increased desire for our own projects, but if we're able to channel frustration into effort toward our passions we can make exceptional progress.

With Mars Retro in Leo we are encouraged to get deeply in touch with our 'true selves' and to be aware of our role-playing selves. Leo brings to mind the heart or core of things (the heart of the Lion) as well as the courage to go after what we discover at our cores. It's important to find ourselves in deeper ways than ever before, to build our strength and courage, and be mindful of the extent to which we or others might 'fake it'. Sometimes we do have to 'fake it til we make it', but all things in moderation. If we discover that a predominant part of ourselves is continually pretending or role-playing, we run the risk of burning out or being caught out. Mars Retro in Leo demands that we strengthen our true selves by building authentic confidence. Authentic confidence comes from repeatedly doing and refining what we are passionate about, not from dreaming about it or doing it occasionally or haphazardly.

Mercury Retro in Capricorn has been asking us to 'get real'. Capricorn is the 'reality check' zodiac sign. So with Mercury Retro in Capricorn we get a reality check about Mars Retro in Leo themes. We might realise that our job, home, relationship etc is not going to last the distance; that it's okay for the fun times of Leo, but is not sustainable (Capricorn) for our futures. Mercury Retro helps us see beneath the surface better than ever before, so if someone is role-playing their generosity or support or commitment, or whatever else, we are likely to see through the mask. Mars Retro in Leo is like being at a party that started out fun but turned gloomy when everyone got too drunk. Capricorn is the reality of what we're left with when the masks are stripped away. For some of us this might have been a dip into depression if we worked out that the people, jobs, situations we were putting our time and effort into (Capricorn) haven't brought fulfilment.

The gift of Mars Retro in Leo offers a powerful opportunity to follow ourselves. Yet often when we find out more about who we truly are we realise that the world's current set up (Capricorn) may not make it easy for us to follow our paths. Think of all the creative, artistic types born under the zodiac sign Leo. These types feel compelled from a young age to follow their talent, follow their calling, but life's not necessarily easy for them when it comes to money making (Capricorn). Writers, artists, actors, dancers, musicians, poets and so on tend to struggle financially unless they have a lucky break. This Mars in Retro phase could change all that. If nothing else, our inner 'true voice', 'true calling' will feel so angry at being held back that we'll feel compelled to fight for change. By the way, this applies to everyone, not only Leos. We all have a 'Leo' self represented by the archetype of the Sun in our charts. When the cosmos emphasises Leo, it's activating everyone's Sun archetype more; the archetype of being 'king' or 'queen' of our own lives.

Combined, Mars Retro in Leo and Mercury Retro in Capricorn challenge us to commit (Capricorn) to the true selve's calling (Leo) and find ways to encourage the world's structures (Capricorn) to work for us, not against us. This is where Saturn Retro in Libra comes in. On 14 January, the day before the New Moon Eclipse, Saturn shifts Retrograde in Libra and stays in backward motion until May. Libra is all about negotiating and deal-making. It's considered the zodiac sign of relationships for good reason, as all healthy relationships involve discussing individual needs and coming up with win-win solutions. Sometimes the win-win might be to end the relationship. Other times exciting, life-enhancing deals can be struck. While Saturn is Retro in Libra the opportunity is there to slow down all discussions so that we can create win-win outcomes. It's time to negotiate better deals for ourselves, especially our creative Leo/Sun selves.

The energies of 2010 are not particularly sympathetic to toeing the line and doing things the same old way for the sake of 'peace'. We all know that peace comes at a price if there's been serious compromise; i.e. if one or more of the parties feels like it's a win-lose scenario. We might get temporary peace but later there can be a huge backlash. Creative collaboration for cooperative contracts tends to work best under Libra. While both Mars and Saturn are Retro, it's possible for past situations, especially relationships, to present themselves either for completion or for another chance. So don't be surprised if exes or others from the past reemerge. It's important to address whatever comes up from our past so that we can truly complete it, otherwise it will continually undermine efforts at moving forward. For some, this might even be a lucky reunion with an old flame that turns into a successful commitment. For many, it's likely to be an opportunity to fully complete old themes, whether from this lifetime or previous lifetimes. Mars shifts Direct in March, so between now and then, it's important to address unfinished business and to argue for better deals for ourselves. When Mars goes Direct in March we should begin to see the fruits of our efforts.

On 16 January Mercury shifts Direct and starts to bring some relief from the intense serious thinking or sense of 'bottoming out'. It's a bit like an animal starting to come out of hibernation after a long snowed-in winter (for us the 'winter' has been the three week Mercury Retro phase from 27 December to 16 January). Yet we don't fully leave our 'winter thinking' behind until after 4 February when Mercury is completely out of its Retro shadow phase.

The middle of January is pivotal. The New Moon in Capricorn on the 15th encourages us to create new patterns, goals and responsibilities. If we've been down in the dumps over lost plans or non-achievable goals, now's the time to set our sights on fresh goals. If we've been doing well, now's the time to up-the-ante and improve our strategic planning. The solar eclipse (not seen in Australia) at the time of this New Moon warns us not to have our heads in the clouds as we make our plans. Healthy Capricorn asks for humble (yet not 'loser mentality'), realistic (yet not 'give up and join the pack' mentality) goals that incorporate the excitement of our 'true selves'; that strengthen that part of ourselves and help it find its way in the world by negotiating new agreements (Saturn in Libra) for better futures.

Some great cosmic news is that we have an important planet on our side all year keeping optimism strong and helping us manifest our hearts' desires. This is lucky planet Jupiter, which moves into Pisces on 18 January. After spending all last year in Aquarius, Jupiter now moves into the zodiac sign of inspiration, healing and compassion. Usually Jupiter spends a year in a zodiac sign, but whips through Pisces from mid-January until June. Yet in September it has a Retro phase that takes it back into Pisces. So all you Pisceans who've been looking forward to Jupiter being in your sign, don't worry - you will get Jupiter's influence from January to June, then again from September til Jan 2011. As for all the Aries reading this, your Jupiter time begins in June and flows until September, then returns again from January 2011.

This means that throughout the year all Water signs (Pisces, Cancer, Scorpio) get a helping hand from Jupiter while it's in Pisces and all Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) get a taste of the planet of good fortune while it's in Aries. You don't have to be a Water or Fire sign to benefit, but you do need to access the positive qualities of Water and Fire. Normally Water and Fire don't mix. Water poured onto Fire puts it out or Fire heats Water until it evaporates. But here's Jupiter this year weaving a story that contains both Water (Pisces) and Fire (Aries). So in Jupiter's Piscean watery months (January to June; September to Jan 2011), it's time to work with our hearts, souls, inner selves and divine intelligence to infuse every cell of our being with the feeling of our greatest dreams. Then when Jupiter is in Aries (from June to September), it's Fire time! We can then get out and put into action all that we have been dreaming about and planning.

Finally, January ends the way it started, with a big focus on the Moon, given that here in Melbourne (AEDT) we have a Blue Moon at the end of the month. Other parts of the world had their Blue Moon on New Year's Eve. Technically a blue moon is when there are two full moons in the same calendar month. North America had their two full moons in December, but Melbourne's first full moon didn't actually peak until 6.14 am New Year's Day. Our second full moon will be at 5.19 pm (AEDT) on 30th January. Of course, experientially we saw a Full Moon on New Year's Eve and we will see a Full Moon on the 30th so the whole of January has a big Moon feel.

If you'd like to see a summary of the key dates and events of the month, head to any page on the Radiant Living website as the 'AstroWeather' always features in the right-hand column of every page.

May the mid-January eclipse and Jupiter's shift into Pisces bring you many inspiring insights for new paths forward.

Facebook Badge

Facebook Badge

About Me

An Intgrated Ascended Master In training with the I am Universiy and a Disciple and Initiate of the 7th Ray Ashram under St Germain.A returning Yogi and Adept,a Mediator and practitioner of all World Religions and Tradtions,a Non secterian Mystic and Realizer,A humble World servant,Musician Artist and Magi.Realizing God,Tantric and Taoist Master in Training.An Externalizing Extension of the 4th Ray Ashram andhe 2nd Ray Ashram of Synthisis Respectively.7th Ray Trainee and aspirant.In truth Integrating all 7 rays in ones highest Ideal and Incarnational direction.